Evolution Inspires Anthrax Cure

October 21, 2016 • by Marc Airhart

Scientists borrowed tricks from evolution to develop the world's first treatment for late stage inhalation anthrax.

Soldier wearing uniform, helmet and gas mask

This fall marks the 15th anniversary of the U.S. anthrax letter attacks that sickened dozens of people and killed five. At the time, there was no effective treatment for a late stage infection. The attacks accelerated work already underway at the University of Texas at Austin. Brent Iverson, George Georgiou and Jennifer Maynard borrowed a page from Mother Nature's playbook to develop the world's first treatment for late stage inhalation anthrax.

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